At the 2012 Conference on College Composition and Communication, three well-known scholars of composition led a discussion on a writing exercise they'd assigned themselves. Each wrote for an hour a day for a 30-day month on an everyday object, a consciousness-raising activity that revealed much about the the objects examined and the writers themselves. We've taken it upon ourselves to replicate this exercise and record the results here.

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Beach Towel

If I could, I’d wrap you up in a beach towel

Everyday of your lifeAnd we would lay warm and content - Looking at the ocean – wondering if it really existsBeyond the horizon.

If I could, I’d wrap you upNot only to warm the chill that theTumbling waves created or Protect you from the sun’s tentacles

But also to enjoy a moment with your headAgainst my belly – reminiscent of before we ever metFace to face – and watch as children playWith buckets of sand and grown ups With poles and lines.

If I could, I’d make sure life was a beachFor you. You’d never forget your sunblock, Beach towel, floppy hat, or reading material.But, perhaps, you would look up and out Sometimes, wondering what really exists